How Backpacking Works

Your backpack is packed, you're in superb hiking condition -- now it's time to set out on the trails. So how will you find your way? If you plan on sticking to well-established trails, you may be fine with a trail map. But if your plans call for backcountry hiking or hiking on unpopulated trails, you should pack a topography map and a compass, and know how to use both. Many outdoor stores offer classes on now to use a map and compass. If you're just learning, take your map and compass with you on trails that you're familiar with for practice.

Some people choose to invest in a global positioning system (GPS). A GPS unit can tell you exactly where you are, your elevation and how far you've traveled. It can't chart out the course in front of you, however. That's why you still need a map. A growing number of trails are available to download to your GPS. But, of course, if you remain on the trail you're not likely to become lost in the first place. Once you're off the trail, there's little the GPS can do to help you become reoriented. A GPS simply doesn't replace the old-fashioned map and compass.

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Before heading out, make sure someone at home knows your anticipated route and when you expect to return. That way if you get lost, somebody knows it. It also helps rescuers to narrow down their search for you.

­To prevent yourself from getting lost, pay attention when you're hiking. By noting the details of your surroundings, you're more likely to notice if something looks wrong or if you're walking in circles. If you believe that you may be lost, remain calm. If you're tired, cold and hungry, or it's getting late, stop and set up camp. Things may look much different in the morning. Have a good meal and try to get some rest. If you still find you're lost in the morning, look for a drainage area or stream bed and follow it downhill. Often that will lead you to more populated trails or roads.

For more information on backpacking, camping and other outdoor sports, consult the links on the following page.

Bathroom Breaks

When nature calls, dig a cat hole -- a small hole about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep -- and squat. It only takes a few turns with a small plastic trowel to dig the hole. If you're using toilet paper, leave it in the hole. Cover the hole up and step firmly on the ground to pack it down. This will prevent a curious creature from digging up your paper and stringing it along the trail. It's a good idea to use unscented, single ply paper -- it won't arouse the interest of animals and will decompose faster. If you're willing to take one for the environment, use leaves, smooth stones, sticks or snow packed firmly into a ball to wipe. Always dig your cat hole at least 200 feet (61 meters) from any water source or trail.